Peter's passion is for fine ale

Peter Burton has witnessed first-hand the rise in popularity of home brewing.

Bev Lacey

Poll

Do you prefer home brew to store bought alcohol?

This poll ended on 02 March 2012.

Yes

56%

No

43%

This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate.

PETER Burton started brewing his own beers 25 years ago and hasn't stopped since.

Mr Burton's passion for brewing soon led to him buying Toowoomba Home Brewers, where he has witnessed a surge in popularity of the pastime.

Mr Burton said the cheaper cost of home brewing was usually what brought customers through the door, but not why they keep coming back.

"If it cost as much to buy your own beer as make it then most people would still keep making it, hands down," he said.

"When I first started, it was mostly guys coming in looking to make whatever beer they could for about $8.

"Now people are not so concerned about money, they want to make good-quality beer."

Mr Burton said he knew many people who started home brewing as a way of saving money but have ended up spending thousands in pursuit of the perfect drop.

"I know a guy in Toowoomba who has spent about $20,000 on his home system," he said.

"It's not just beer though. It's wines and spirits. Ciders are also very popular at the moment.

"It's easy to do. If you can breathe you can make your own beer."